Big changes coming to Australia's airports
Police have been granted controversial new powers at Australia’s airports, as the federal government signals its intent to beef up aviation security.
News.com.au reports Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull was at Melbourne Airport to spruik the security changes, which would give police the power to check passengers’ ID at any time and eject them if they feel they post a security risk.
The security measures were outlined in last week’s Federal Budget, which includes millions set aside for full-body scanners and advanced X-ray equipment.
Mr Turnbull acknowledged it was a “big test” but argued it a necessity in “dangerous times”.
“You’ve got to keep people safe,” Mr Turnbull said on Melbourne’s 3AW radio on Tuesday.
“You don’t have to (carry ID), there’s no law that requires you to but it’s hard to think of anyone that wouldn’t have some ID and wouldn’t be able to say a bit about themselves.
“The police are being trained to observe behaviour. They place very close attention to people who are looking anxious or creating a suspicious environment.”
Mr Turnbull highlighted the “brutal” terrorist attacked in Indonesia’s second largest city, Surabaya, this week as a reminder of the constant threat terrorism presents.
“It reminds us of the need to be ever vigilant,” Mr Turnbull told reporters in Melbourne.
“There is no place for ‘set and forget’ in defending Australians.”
Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton backed up the PM’s comments, describing the surge in potential terror attacks as unprecedented and sophisticated.
“These terrorist plots showed a very real and disturbing danger,” Mr Dutton said.
“The government and industry responded immediately to disrupt and contain the threat, increasing law enforcement and strengthening security screening.”
What are your thoughts? Do you think security measures go too far?